Now on exhibit at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum

History of America's Military Mail

Members of the armed forces can feel isolated while deployed overseas in challenging and often dangerous conditions. Mail gives these men and women access to the world they have temporarily left behind. Receiving mail connects them to loved ones and enables them to learn about and participate in events occurring at home.

Mail Call explores how the military postal system works and why the mail is an important resource. Types of mail, transportation methods, and postal workers have all changed over time. Through innovations in technology and organization, mail has become more diverse and military mail services more reliable.